"Our condolences to your family . Gildo was always there for us while we were becoming the only team to win the National Championship D - ll for NMU i for one will never forget his presents as a part of the team and NMU . Take care Brian and Cheryl Adams"
In loving memory of
GILDO A. CANALE
March 24, 1931 - February 26, 2009
Gil Canale, who orchestrated a golden age in athletics at Northern Michigan University that garnered national prominence, died on February 26, 2009 from complications of cancer. He was 77.
Mr. Canale was born on March 24, 1931 in Crystal Falls, Michigan, a son of Caterina and John Battista Canale. After graduating from his hometown high school in 1949, Gil served three years in the US Air Force before earning an undergraduate degree from Northern Michigan College in 1956. A master's degree was awarded from Indiana University in 1957. Following a brief secondary education teaching and coaching career in Munising, he joined Northern Michigan in 1959 as an instructor and athletic trainer. He retired in 1993 and was named professor emeritus.
His long career at NMU included appointment as athletic director from 1971 to 1985. During that period the football team won the NCAA-II national championship and reached the playoffs five additional seasons. Ice hockey, which he was instrumental in establishing as a NCAA-I sport at the university, made two trips to the frozen four, later winning the national championship in 1991. Additionally, teams or individuals in men's basketball, diving, skiing, wrestling, and women's field hockey, gymnastics and skiing were all tournament competitive nationally. "I had many outstanding coaches in the athletic department," Canale often said. We were able to accomplish a lot because we had a great staff and talented student athletes."
Affiliations, honors and memberships included; American Legion, Msgr. Nolan B. McKevitt Council # 689, Knights of Columbus, Bishop Frederic Baraga the Snowshoe Priest Assembly Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, St. Peter Cathedral, U.P. Catholic Education board of directors, co-founder and charter member Golden Wildcat Club, co-founder NMU Sports Hall of Fame (inducted 1983) and U.P. Sports Hall of Fame (inducted 1987), NMU Distinguished Service Award, Marquette Golf Club board of directors, American Red Cross Life Saving Merit Award, Barracks Boys, Varsity N Club and Tri-Mu Fraternity.
Gil is remembered by some as a colorful state high school athletic official, traveling across Michigan from 1953 to 1995 to referee football, basketball, cross country and track contests. He had a warm, engaging personality to which many will attest. In recent years he relished a good round of golf or cribbage with his friends in Arizona or the UP, and telling humorous stories from the road. His family will miss his laughter, his charitable nature, his genuineness, his love of all things and his hard work combined with endless optimism.
He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, the former Joyce Kokko whom he married on May 26, 1956 in Marquette; three children, Mark of Marquette, Brad of Ann Arbor, and Kristy (John) Mackens of Green Bay, WI; two grandchildren, Andrew and Ashley Mackens; one brother, Dominic (Marjorie) Canale of Pioneer, CA; also several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Gil was preceded in death by two brothers, Dominic (in childhood) and Julius Canale; also three sisters, June Chiovare, Linda Pimentel and Angeline Tessaro.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Canale-Tonella Funeral Home where a parish prayer service will take place at 7:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday at 11 a.m. in St. Peter Cathedral with the Rev. Michael Steber, pastor, officiating and concelebrated by Rev. Msgr. Jed Patrick, and Rev. Ben Paris. The Most Rev. James H. Garland, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Marquette will be in attendance. Rite of Committal will take place at the Park Cemetery in the spring.
Honorary pallbearers will be Neil Nystrom, Frank Young, Buck Nystrom, Jack Kunkel, Al Sandona, Tom Skoog, Gil Krueger and Jerry Saundri.
Casket bearers will be R. Thomas Peters, Bob Luke, Herb Grenke, Lowell Meier, John Tessaro, Jerry Pangrazzi, Cliff Millado, and Randy Awrey.
Members of Bishop Baraga the Snowshoe Priest Assembly Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus will act as honor guard.
In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials are preferred to assist students at Northern Michigan University through the Gil and Joyce Canale Scholarship Fund, NMU Foundation, 1401 Presque Isle Ave., Marquette, MI 49855 or to benefit patients in need of care through the Lake Superior Hospice Association, 914 Baraga Ave., Marquette, MI 49855.
Gil's obituary can also be viewed at www.canalefuneral.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.
Tributes
"Mark, My condolences on the loss of your father. I was a student at NMU in the late 60's and early 70's. He was an excellent instructor and A.D. Rick ( a Senior Electrician at NMU) knew him in the latter capacity. We last saw Gildo at the Hematology/Oncology office in January when both were there for treatment. Lots of reminiscing and lots of laughs. It was a great day to be a Wildcat."
"Dear Mark, We were in Florida when your father passed away and we just heard about it. We send out sincere sympathy, may the happy memories bring you comfort. Don & Chris St Aubin"
"ME AND JOE, GARY, SHELLY, TONY TESSARO, SEND OUR BEST TO ALL THE FAMILY."
"I would like to express me deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Gildo Canale. I had "Gipper" as an instructor at NMU and thoroughly enjoyed his class. He was a great representative of NMU and a great person."
"A list of the many memories of an Athletic Director & a golf partner to Connie's dad, that changed into the friendship of a very special man, could go on and on. He will always be a part of who we were at NMU, and a part of the encouragement to continue to seek excellence in NMU athletics. More than that, we will always remember the smile, the whistle, the story, the joke, and the knowledge that he was on our side always and would help in any way he could for whatever we needed. May he and Dick Ward now enjoy the perfect golf game, free from all pain, surrounded by the love of God. Our heartfelt sympathy and love to Joyce and all the family. May you find peace in the trust that his suffering is over and his celebration has begun. God bless you all."
"THE GIPPER, the best Trainer any football team ever had. When he'd run low on tape (due to budget constraints & his belief that linemen didn't need taping)he'd use his "PHd in Psychology" to convince you that you had to be tough .. that you did did not have a sprained ankle, or wrist, etc. That it was all in your mind! You see,Gipper truly understood the human spirit and what it can accomplish when it believes ... he truly cared, and dare I say, loved the atheletes he served so well. For all of his kindnesses and his friendship over the years I'm forever grateful. To Joyce and family, my deepest sympathy. Gerry Goerlitz '62"
"As a neighbor & Kristy's best friend in middle/high school & beyond, I spent countless hours at The Canale's. Mr. Canale was always so warm & welcoming to me. He was a larger than life character. My sympathies."
"Our deepest and profound sympathies. We will always remember him and his unique command of the Finnish language. His annual pilgrimage to Sun City will leave a big void in our golfing foursome. He was and will always be considered a great friend. Tom and Pauline Skoog Sun City, AZ"
"Joyce, Brad, Mark, and Kristy, I take this opportunity to express my sincerest sympathy to each of you; I am going to miss my good friend and neighbor. Gil served as a mentor and a "coach" to many in the Marquette area; a true icon in the sports arena. I am sorry that I wll not be in Marquette for his celebration of life. Sincerely, Jane Campbell"
"Mark & family, We were sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. We send our deepest sympathy. He touched the life of many and will surely be missed. Bill & Donna"
"Dear Joyce and Family:June and I express our deepest sympathies as we feel the sadness of this news. May your love for Gildo, your faith and prayers strengthen and sustain you through these difficult times. Gildo was a special friend and staff member during our presidential tenure. Having appointed him as our Athletic Director, Gildo provided the leadeship in the program that attained national recognition -- football champions, hockey champions, individual champions in swimming, diving, wrestling, skiing, women's field hockey, baskeball. All of us are saddened, but we must alway remember Gildo as a loving husband and father, and a gentleman with a mission for Northern Michigan University. John X. Jamrich President Emeritus Northern Michigan University"
"Mark and family - Steve and I would like to express our sincere condolences to you and your family! Losing a parent is one of the hardest things to go through in life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless. Steve and Betsy"
"Gil was always welcoming when we "coffeed" with our children when they were young. And, when we had our class reunions, he was always encouraging activities above and beyond the norm, and was a real helpmate to Joyce in planning all the reunions. We will miss him. Our sympathy to you, Joyce, Mark, Brad and Kristy and family. Emery and Joan Dorow"
"Mr.Canale, was my drivers ed. teacher at Mather High school. I always think of him when i am driving. My prayers are with you and the family."
"Condolences to the Canale family on the loss of a love one.The Vajda family knew Gildo as a teacher to sons and as a colleague at NMU."
"Having grown up in the neighborhood with your family, I often ran into your Dad during his golden years at NMU. Gildo was always the man to see if I wanted a mini football or b-ball (those were sooo cool!) He used to call me "Tiger Thomsen". He and my father had many great times on the links and at hunting camps! I imagine they're swapping stories up in heaven, as we speak! My prayers are with you during this difficult time. God's Peace, Julie"
"Dear Joyce, Mark, Brad and Kristy, We are saddened to learn of Gil's passing and send our deep condolences. May you take comfort in knowing he is enjoying the rewards of a life well lived. Barbara and David"
"Dear Mark: Our sincere condolences on the death of your father. We remember the pain and loss we felt when our dad past. Just know your dad is in a better place and with your hands a graceful passage to peace!"
"Gildo was "one of a kind" in many ways. I'll never forget his "gimmee" putts on the Golf Course especially in his favor. I also remember his unyielding and abiding love and respect for "His" NMU. He was always willing to help someone especially behind the scenes. A true WILDCAT has been put to rest, but will never be forgotten."
"Mark and family.....extending our sympathy with the death of your father. Losing a parent is always sad, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Love, Bobbi and Darrel"
"To the Canale Family, my early childhood living in Munising I remember socials at my parents house Rita and Fran Pond alone with Stan Whitman and other."we were sent to bed early for some reason. He will be missed. God Bless! Patrick Pond"
"I first met Gildo in August, 1958 when I was helping coach the linemen at Munising HS. Upon returning to Marquette to play my second year at NMU I recall hearing Frosty say he needed an athletic trainer. I mentioned Gildo's name and the rest is history. Once when we were taking the team bus downstate to play a game I remember the bus driver stopping at some railroad tracks and opening the door as all busses must do at RR crossings. When the driver was assured the coast was clear he started up and Gildo made his famous train whistle call which caused the driver to slam on the air brakes and just about knock the entire team out of their seats. His humor was simply unmatched. Gildo and family are in my thoughts and prayers. He was an exceptional person in many ways! Jim Mansfield NMU '61, '64"
"I remember Gildo as a basketball official when I played at Ishpeming HS and Michigan Tech. He was an excellent official and always made games entertaining. In one game I remember Gildo giving a "T" to Coach Cade who protested - Gildo asked if he would like another - Coach Cade responded both rudely and affirmatively - Gildo gladly obliged. My wife Marcia also remembers fainting in one of his classes and how concerned and caring was his response. Best wishes, Al Morrison IHS '67 MTU '71"
"I feel honored to share in the life memories of "Mr.Canale". I played basketball for Trenary High School 69-72 and was always pleased to have Mr.Canale & Mr.Pangrazzi as our referees. When I saw them walk into the gym, I knew we would have a good night! "They sure don't make 'em like that anymore!" Sending my condolances to to the family. Praying God will comfort you in this time of sorrow. Bill Sandstrom"
"We would like to express our sympathy to you, Joyce, and all the rest of your family. It was great to have a man of Gildo's caliber around us as we were beginning our college careers. He provided much attention to us as athletes, often with his stories and special brand of humor. When there was a need to "sound off" he was always willing to listen. We will miss seeing him around NMU athletics. Duane ('65) and Judy ('63)"
"Mrs Canale,Kristy,Mark,and Brad , We want to extend our condolances at this most difficult time. Reading over all the shared mormories here, what a legacey your husband and father left. I hope you are looking over old photos, and remembering all the great memories you all share. As one of Kristy's good friends in high school, I have great memories of your father.all the best, the Hans Muelle family"
"Joyce, Mark, and family, My sincere condolences to you and your family, in the loss of Gildo, someone very special to you. I considered myself very lucky to have known him. I enjoyed our conversations, and the many stories of his life experiences. He was indeed a unique individual, and a friend to many. He was very good for N. M. U., and the student athletes he was so proud of. He had a great sense of humor. He will be missed by his many friends and family. I can safely say there was only one Gildo. Sincerely, David Skoog"
"To the Canale family, I was saddened to hear about the passing of one of the U.P.'s greatest men! I grew up hearing of stories from my father and later, while at Northern had the pleasure of meeting him while coaching at MSHS and in golf class. He made time for everybody and touched innumerable lives not only with his wit but with his caring ways. He will be missed by everyone that he came into contact with. Greg Tatrow ('92)"
"Dear Joyce, Mark, and family, My sincere condolences to you and your family, in the loss of Gildo. I consider myself fortunate to have known him. I enjoyed our conversations, and the stories of his life experiences that he shared. He had a great sense of humor. May God be with you during your time of need. Sincerely, Greg Veale"
"Joyce and family, my mom and I send our prayers and blessings to your family during this time of sorrow. Gildo will be greatly missed. He was a great man and always was there to lend a helping hand. God Bless."
"Mark, I am so sorry to hear about your dad. I hope that the lord helps you through this tough time. I will say some prayers for you and your family. Sincerely, Therese (Chaperon) Root"
"Joyce & Family Our sincere sympathy at your loss. Having worked with Gildo and the Wildcat Club for 30 yrs I knew of his dedication to the University and the U.P. He was a friend and supporter to our family. He will be missed by all. God be with you!"
"Dear Brad, I am sadden to learn of the loss of your father. No matter what our age, when we are separated from a parent on this earth it is painful. Take comfort, especially during this Lenten Season, of God's promise of being united once again with our loved ones in His Kingdom. All my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your friend always, K"
"Mark and the entire Canale family, I am saddened to hear of the passing of your father. We ae never prepared to let go of someone we love. We always pray for "one more day". In reading all the accomplishments he made in his short time here, your family has truly been blessed as have so many others in the community felt his strengh and compassion for life. I am reminded of the poem "The Dash" which says it is not our birth or death date that defines who we are...but the "dash" between the dates as it tells the story of what we did with our life. My sincere sympathy to you Mark as you have been such an important part of my son's life nurturing and teaching him in his chosen field as a funeral director. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Sandy Borg"
"Mark, We would like to extend our sympathy to you and your family at the passing of Gildo. He was a good man and will be sorely missed.we will keep him in our prayers Peter and Jocelyn"
"I am sorry to hear of the passing of mr. canale, I never had the pleasure to meet him I always wanted to, as he was kind of a mentor to me without his knowledge, he was officating a basketball game at Eben, him and mr. parrons who also has passed, I was in high school in 1966 and they were officiating the varsity game and well being a sports fan and player in 9th grade at the end of the first half I went and told them they stunk and did a lousy job. Well today I have been officiating basketball since 1976 high school and also umpire baseball, softball, and volleyball, in Wisconsin and now in Arizona as a snow bird umpire, It was not until years later who the officials that did that game and that they were one of the best in the upper peninsula, I enjoy being a official and do all levels grade school to college, again I send my deepest condolences Bill rinnemaki a fellow official"
"My Condolences. Class 80"
"Mrs Canale,Kristy,Mark,and Brad - Anna and I extend our condolances at this most difficult time. I was fortunate to be a NMU student during the winning years of the 70s. We both have had the good fortune of knowing Gil through the wonderful family he raised. May God bless and comfort you all. Peter and Anna Plummer."
"I am sure he is with my folks Glenn and Dee and many others. So many fond memories and special times, at NMU and Mqt. He will be greatly missed. All my best. God Bless"
"Mark, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. I pray that your faith in God will help and comfort you through this time of sorrow."
"Gildo, we hardly knew ye. You and Joyce were so totally wonderful to you niece, Katie Canale (Ryan). One terrific man.--Mike Ryan, Katie's proud husband, Bakersfield, California"
"Oct.1961 I set foot on Northerns campus for the first time. I was greeted by Stan Albeck, Jack McCracken, Muggs Gingrass ( I married his daughter Julie in 1966) and Gipper. I stayed. Gipper was my barber, trainer and friend during some of the best years of my life. He was nothing but good to me. A part of my life is now gone.May God bless his family and may all the wonderfull memories live on forever. Gary Silc 1963"
"to the canale family: deepest sympathy on the loss of gildo, who is now in a better place...as a fellow official, always enjoyed visiting with the gipper at athletic events. gildo was one of a kind..never to be forgotten..our prayers are with you.."
"Aunt Joyce, Mark, Brad and Kristy: What a wonderful husband, father and Uncle who will be missed by everyone whose lives he touched and enhanced. He will be remembered always with my only regret being not able to spend more time him and you."
"Dear Mark-o, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, and may God grant you peace and comfort as you go thru this rough time. Thinking of you..."
"Marco, Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family in this difficult time. I'm shure you will find peace in your loving memories of him for years to come. Best wishes from the Muelle family."
"Gildo Canale made a positive difference in many student-athletes' lives, including mine. It was impossible not to like him. My prayers are with all of you, his family and friends. Mike"
"I was a student at NMU from 1963 to 1967 and then on its staff until 1969. I have many fond memories of Gil. He really epitomizes Northern. He'll be missed."
"The two Gil's I met during my time at NMU were Gil Canale and Gil Heard. Both hard working gentlemen!"
"Joyce, Mark, Brad and Christy, Please accept my condolences upon GILDO's death. He was a great man and truly an original edition. He started as trainer several months after I started as equipment manager. He was an outstanding trainer who brought thousands of NMU athletes back to health. He kept all the athletes loose with his jokes and stories. He saw NMU through the growth and development of the university. He excelled as an administrator also. In the end, however, he will be remembered by most for his absolutely unquenchable spirit, joy of life, sense of humor, and enduring kindness to others."
"Gildo was a U.P. original. I once told him that I used to put the fact that I had won the Gildo Canale Scholarship on the front page of my resume because I was so proud. Instead of being honored, Gildo seemed genuinely distressed by the implication that I no longer put this on my resume. He cried "you should still put that on your resume, David!" No problem, Gildo. It will always be on my resume in honor of you and everything you have done for NMU."
"Dear Canale Family; So many of us knew Gildo through his tireless work at NMU. For many years, he was the face of NMU Atheltics, and when you spoke with him, he made you beleive that NMU could accomplish greatness in any of the teams it fielded. Now, with Gildo's passing, we realize this was only one facet of the man. His greatness as a husband and father is what really mattered to him. It is witnessed in every one of you that will carry on his name and wonderful memories. May you find peace in knowing that he is with God and has left the best of him here on earth, through his family. God Bless"
"Dear Mark and Family, It is with deep sorrow that I write to you today, I will not be able to attend services, as I am out of town.The passing of your father is trajic not only to your family but this entire community. He was such an important part of this city and this region, his loss will be felt all over.I'm sure that he was so proud of you and the committment you display in the community. You are carrying the torch well my friend. Sincerely, John Kivela Mayor City of Marquette"
"My prayers and thoughts are with you at this sad time. He will always be in your life as he is in your hearts. I was a classmate of Gildo's at Northern graduating in '56 also. With sympathy, Janice Aho Gebeau"
"Gildo was one of a kind ! I will miss his golf tips and jokes too... God speed Gildo."
"Mark,Joyce and Family, We were saddened to hear of Gildo's passing. We will always appreciate what he did for NMU and the athletic department. His contributions helped both of us during our time as student-athletes at Northern. His smile, charm and spirit will be missed. God Bless your family at this time."
"When I think of my years at NMU 67-72 its Mr. Canale face that so often comes to mind. He really made you feel like you belonged to the wild cats family. Goodbye and thankyou."
"Mark, Brad & Family I am sorry to hear of your loss. I only knew Gildo personally through the many poker games we played together over many years. He was always fun to be around as well as a great bluffer and great card player. But that was only 1% of him, and the community and his family were the other 99% He was well known, well liked and well respected. Best wishes through this difficult time."
"Our deepest Sympathy to the Canale Family.The Gipper was the best person to have on your side when it came to life problems.He was a help to all who's life he touched in or out of sports. Thanks for the memories. Chuck & Sandy"
"The Gipper was a great guy who I have many fond memories of in my years at NMU."
"Dear Canale Family...words cannot express the positive impact Gildo had on so many lives and NMU. He was "one of a kind" and will be greatly missed. May God be with you in your sorrow!"
"We are saddened to learn of Gildo's passing and comforted to know he is at peace. May memories of happier times and love of family and friends bring all of your family comfort. Judi and Bren Bailey"
"Our prayers are with you at this time and always !! I have nothing but fond memories of Gildo and can say our trip to the National Championship would not have been the same without him , but the best thing of all is that if any of us ever needed something all we had to do was ask and he would do whatever it took to get it done. That was what he was all about anything for anybody !! All our love and May God Bless you all !!!"
"My deepest sympathies for your loss - my prayers go out to you."
"Dear Canale Family, Our sincere sympathies for your loss. Gil was a great friend and colleague for many years. As a fellow Yooper I had the opportunity to work on many projects with Gil. He was aways a contributor and friend. We will miss him. Jerry and Shelley Cvengros"
"Mark, my heart is aching for your loss. How difficult it must have been to let go of this wonderful man who was so involved in all your lives and always so full of life! He made me smile every time he came in when I was working. He'd come in with a story and a purpose, and then as quickly as he breezed in, he was off to his next stop. Now it's time for your family to find comfort in one another and know that your Dad lived a beautiful life. While you will miss him terribly, know that he is resting peacefully."
"I offer my sympathy and prayers for the Canale family. Gildo touched many of use during our years at NMU."
"Thanks for the memories. Rip"
"Gildo will surely be missed, but will never be forgotten. Jan and I have always admired him as a friend, and for all that he did for NMU over the years. He was one of the best classroom instructors that I had as a PE student, and Jan had the opportunity to work with him for a few years in the PE/Athletic Dept. Our sympathy goes out to your family. We regret that we were unable to be at the visitation and services as we are out of town at this time. Sincerely, Don and Jan Marana"
"Mark, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this most sorrowful time of your lives. I enjoyed playing cribbage against your dad on Wednesdays at the Elks, and reminiscing about my years at NMU. Your dad was a great guy, he will be missed."
"Gildo was filled with enthusiasm and encouragement. It was a privilege to know him. My sincere condolences to his family. Robert Glascott NMU 1967"
"Dear Mark and Family, Please accept our condolences, I met Gildo in 1980 when I first moved to the UP, and truly enjoyed his company whenever we had a chance to catch up, mainly at the golf course. There is no doubt that this Upper Peninsula ICON will be missed."
"Our sympathies go out to the Canale family; his niece, Katie Ryan, is a good friend of ours, and she thought so highly of her Uncle Gildo."
"Canale Family, Please accept my deepest sympathy with the loss of Gildo. I graduated from Northern in 1962 as a P.E. Major and have many fond memories of him. Sincerely, Norman Plattenberg"
"Dear Mark & Family, Please accept my sincere sympathy on the passing of your father. It's never easy having a loved one leave us although we know he's in such a better place. I didn't know your dad personally, however, my father always commented on what a great guy he was, as they had many conversations while they were both at NMU. He left you a great legacy. My prayers and thoughts are with you. May God give you strength and solace as you grieve your loss. With deepest condolences, Kathy Pesola"
"our deepest sympathy over your loss-"the gipper" was an integral part of many wildcat lives including mine---he was a great friend,leader and inspirational force in bringing nmu to its present academic and sports heights--he will never be forgotten---a man of men----bill & linda brodeur {60}"
"Gildo kept wherever he was alive with his enthusiasm, stories, energy and questions. One could never get away unnoticed when he was there! I last saw him in the infusion room at the UP Hematology and Oncology Associates and he was talking about staying in Marquette for the winter because he trusted the care he was receiving. He was a character and will be missed."
"My condolances to you and your family.Gildo always had a twinkle in his eye and a very friendly smile.Though he was not my advisor I went to him often with complaints, problems both professional and personal and he was always there for me. As a young student he steered me in the right direction. He will be missed."
"Dear Mrs Canale, I would like to express our deepest sympathies on the loss of your husband. He was a wonderful man. I remember he was one of my regulars when I worked at the bakery down on Baraga Ave, he was always so happy in the morning to come and have his coffee and chat. Then we became your paper carriers and he took Mariah under his wing like she was his own granddaughter. I can't express how much his kindness toward that little girl meant to all of us, her especially. We will always cherish the memories. With many prayers and fond thoughts, The Stull Family"
"My condolences, I wish I could have known Gildo, as he is so evidently a great man. May he live on in the memories of every heart he touched."
"To the Canale family, This is sad news indeed and I send my condolences to you all. I can still picture Gil at NMU where I was a student-athlete and I went to high school with Brad and Mark. Diane (White) Husic"
"My sincere sympathy to you, Mark, and your family, at this sober time in the loss of your Dad. Although, your life will go on, there will be a new kind "normal" and an old kind of "memory world" which we traverse back and forth in. My thoughts and prayers are with you."
"I am so sorry to hear about Gil's passing. My few short visits with you and Gil are a lasting memory. We were all at Bev Stromquist's cottage on Lake Independence August of 2004. What a wonderful brunch and visit. We laughed and had such a nice time together. Who could beat Gil's jokes. I know what a struggle it was during Gil's illness but isn't it great to have HOPE along the journey. Bill and Gil are taking care of you and me and smile down on us--saying you can do it--yes, you can!! What a priveledge to know Gil!!! Love you, Joyce- -Mary Beth"
"Dear Joyce and Family, We were saddened to read of Guildo's passing. Our memories go way back to our first year at NMU and living in faculty housing on Center St. You had two little boys and we were all anxious to start our careers. Lots of years and memories since then. We know how much he enjoyed all the facets of his life. We are in Florida for the winter so were unable to be there in person. Our sympathy to your family. Joan and Paul Mattson"
"Gildo was a class act that blended the old and new of Northern in athletics and physical education. As a golf coach it was one joke after another wherever you were on the course. As an official there was only one side of the rule and on any carpet call he left your feet burning and walked away with you smiling wondering what he just did. As a mentor he always challenged you to do the right thing for the future of all the things he loved so dearly in athletic pursuits. His quick wit and smile were ever present. Sincere wishes to you all in his passing. Rico R. Zenti"
"To the Canale Family, Our condolences to you. Gil will be sadly missed. Frank and Garnet were always so proud of him and enjoyed your visits. Take care. Bill and Linda"
"I read with sadness the recent passing of Gildo. I knew him as a fine baseball coach for our American Legion Team in Crystal Falls in 1955 or 56. He made a remarkable and lasting contribution to Northern Michigan U. and Upper Michigan athletics and sportsmanship."
"Mark--We just returned from Arizona to learn of your dad's death. Our condolences to you and your family. I knew your dad well during my nearly 30 years at NMU, and liked him very much. He treated everyone with the same open friendliness, frank manner, and humor, and contributed so much to everything he was involved in--especially NMU. We would greet each other at morning weekday Mass at the Cathedral and I looked forward to seeing him there. I'll miss him."
"On behalf of the Wodzinski family;my father and uncle who officiated with Mr.Canale to Joyce who is my mothers' sponser when she converted to Catholisism; to the children, Mark,Brad, and Christe we share in your loss and pray that your grief will subside in time. Joseph C.Wodzinski"